Acupressure to Induce labor

Pressure Points to Induce Labor Pregnancy Massage Techniques

Using acupressure to induce labor is one of the most pleasant methods of natural labor induction. It is similar to using reflexology to induce labor or even going to the chiropractor for an adjustment.


One of my friends used to refer to her weekly visits to the chiropractor as her "crack". She always joked about this because she came home feeling so refreshed and relaxed. It helped to relieve her tension. Whenever she was heading to her appointment, she would say she was off to get her "fix".


To use acupressure as a method to induce labor, there are two pressure points that can be stimulated to produce contractions.


They are located:

•     In the webbing of your thumb and index finger.
•     Four finger-widths above the inside of your ankle bone.

To stimulate the first pressure point, pinch the webbing of your hand and rub in a circular motion for 30-60 seconds at a time, taking a 1-2 minute break in between contractions.


For the latter point, press firmly on the spot. It should feel sore if you've found the right spot. Press and rub in a circular motion until you have a contraction. When the contraction is done begin again.


For detailed instructions on using acupressure to induce labour, read Maternity Acupressure, the definitive online resource for natual labor induction.


Using acupressure to induce labor will not be successful unless your body is already close to labor. However, exert caution when using this or any other natural labor induction technique.

REFERENCES

Smith CA, Crowther CA. Acupuncture for induction of labour. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2004, Issue 1. Art. No.: CD002962. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD002962.pub2.


Smith CA, Collins CT, Cyna AM, Crowther CA. Complementary and alternative therapies for pain management in labour. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2006, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD003521. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003521.pub2.


Jewell D, Young G. Interventions for nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2003, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD000145. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD000145.
Beal MW. Acupuncture and acupressure. Applications to women's reproductive health care. J Nurse Midwifery 1999;44:217-30.




Giving Birth Naturally: Natural Ways to Induce Labor: Acupressure to Induce Labor